43' catamaran

CatamaranReviews.com

Leopard 43 catamaran.

The Leopard 43 is a popular cruising catamaran. The well thought out, comfortable design, and ability to sail short-handed makes an ideal blue-water cruising boat. Built with a high standard of construction, they are good value for money on the used catamaran market. 

Table of Contents

DESIGN – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

The Leopard 43 is a comfortable and reasonably fast passage maker able to be sailed short-handed. Based on the award-winning Leopard 42, the Leopard 43 is designed by Simonis and Voegd and built by Robertson and Caine, a large South African builder. These catamarans were built in two configurations, one for owners and one for the charter market. The owner’s version, called the Leopard 43 has three cabins and three heads. While the charter version, named the Moorings 4300, has a fitout of four cabins and four heads.

A solidly constructed hardtop provides good protection in the cockpit for enjoying life on the water. The hardtop also offers a convenient location for the solar panels and the traveler to mount to, reducing clutter in the cockpit. One unfavorable aspect of the design of the Leopard 43 is the bridge deck, which has a low clearance with the water and is known to slam in rough seas. Strong davits securely hold the dinghy, which is mounted on a full walk around duckboard on the transom. This is a practical design and convenient during sailing and provides excellent access to the tender and ocean at anchor. With a total of 74 Leopard 43’s built between 2004 and 2007, they remain a popular catamaran and don’t last long in the used catamaran marketplace.

Sailors on the Leopard 43 have easy access to the water with the large duckboard and the large sugar scoop steps. These would be very useful for entering the water to go snorkeling or pulling your freshly caught fish aboard. An outdoor shower is located at the port scoop is ideal for rinsing off afterward. There is plenty of room on the aft rail for the grill to be mounted.

Upfront, seats are mounted on the pulpit, creating a nice space to sit and watch the world go by or for enjoying sundowners. And the trampolines are a good size for both comfort and safety. Grab rails are mounted on the cabin top and are convenient when moving along the deck.

The helm is located on the starboard side with excellent visibility and protection. It is enhanced by a windscreen Bimini that attaches between the cabin rooftop and the hardtop for bad weather. The entire cockpit area has adequate protection from the hardtop, and clears can be rolled down quickly if poor weather were to arrive. The table in the cockpit has a wraparound lounge and can seat eight, using two additional seats. Most lines are run back to the cockpit and helm with an electric winch providing the muscle power. Additional winches are located on the mast.

Entry into the saloon from the cockpit is over a seaworthy raised bulkhead and through a large opening door. The adjacent side of the door are folding panels that open out for further ventilation and space. A thoughtful design in the cabin is the louvered forward windows, which provide very good protection from the sun. And the forward windows incorporate opening hatches for ventilation.

The lounge is located starboard, seating six with one on a moveable seat, and ample space is available for dining or cocktails and relaxing. The table does go down for extra sleeping berth, with the cushions stowed away in the port side v-berth. A large amount of convenient storage space is available underneath the lounge seats, perfect for food and drinks.

The U shaped galley is mounted up and forward on the port side. They are comprised of two sinks and a very thoughtfully recessed dish drying rack, which would be perfect for securing dishes while sailing. The separate fridge and freezer, two burner stove and oven with lots of counter space makes cruising life on this catamaran very comfortable. A chart table and navigation station is located on the starboard side. The wiring can be easily accessed behind the comprehensive electrical control panel at the navigation station.

ACCOMMODATIONS

The accommodation offers comfort and privacy, with ample room for guests to join in the adventure. The owner’s versions consist of three cabins and a single v-berth in the bow, with the owner’s berth taking up the entire starboard hull. Conveniently, a door closes the owner’s berth from the salon area for privacy. The other option, the charter version has four double berths and two single berths in the bows. The double cabins are spacious, with a private head in each and storage provided underneath the queen-sized beds. 

The berths are equipped with shelving, cabin lights, reading lights, ventilation fans, closets with hanging space, and the owner’s cabin area also features a desk. Some berths have air conditioning, and depending on the model, it can be controlled separately for each berth. Removable ceiling panels are fitted throughout for ease of inspection and maintenance.

Overall, this catamaran has a well-designed and well finished interior fitout.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 

• LOA: 42.49 ft / 12.95 m 
• LWL: 37.73 ft / 11.50 m 
• Beam: 22.74 ft / 6.93 m 
• S.A. (reported): 1,291.00 ft2 / 119.94 m2 
• Draft (max): 4.00 ft / 1.22 m 
• Displacement: 19,026 lb / 8,630 kg 
• First Built: 2004 
• Last Built: 2007 
• Number Built: 74 
• Builder: Robertson & Caine 
• Designer: Simonis & Voogd 
• Engine Type: Diesel x 2 
• Engine HP: 58 
• Fuel: 95 gals / 360 L 
• Water: 206 gals / 780 L 

PRICE RANGE

The market price of the Leopard 43 is in the range from $275,000 to $375,000 depending on the condition and version.

Overall, the Leopard 43 is a thoughtfully designed catamaran, and the ability to sail short-handed makes it an ideal blue-water cruising boat. As they are built with a high standard of construction, they provide good value for money. Although discontinued, they remain a popular catamaran, and with 74 Leopard 43’s built between 2004 and 2007, they can be seen sailing the oceans for some time to come.

Leopard 43 Specs

Make: leopard, catamaran rating, leopard 43 pictures, new catamaran reviews.

Seawind 1600

Privilege 585

Catamaran Makes

New reviews, most popular.

• THE PRINCESS PASSPORT
• Email Newsletter
• Yacht Walkthroughs
• Destinations
• Electronics
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology
• Boating Safety

Lagoon Power 43

• By George Sass, Jr.
• Updated: October 4, 2007

I am fortunate to have cruised some interesting parts of the world, perhaps seizing the opportunities while avoiding nagging responsibilities shoreside. Still, every time I cast a rod into the surf as the rising sun splinters the horizon, I have no recollection of what earth-shattering duties might have kept me from the moment. Thanks to technology, my job is a little more secure these days and my wanderlust is slightly more at bay, but a recent weekend cruising the Chesapeake Bay aboard the new Lagoon Power 43 has again left my mind full of visions that are blissfully counterproductive.

Lagoon made its mark with spirited, roomy sailing catamarans from 38 feet to 67 feet. The 43 is the builder’s first foray into the power market, and it stands apart from the offerings of some other sailboat manufacturers that simply remove the stick and add bigger engines.

The 43’s hulls are a semi-displacement design with a deep forefoot to reduce pounding. A chine above the waterline displaces spray. After extensive trials on hull number one, Lagoon retooled the mold to increase chine on the hull’s inside and displace water hitting the platform between the hulls.

Our weekend cruise was effortless, with twin 190 hp Yanmar diesels pushing us to cruise at 15 knots and topping out at 20. We recorded only 68 decibels at the helm at cruising speed with the saloon doors closed. Lagoon placed both engines’ exhaust on the inside of the hull, which reduces noise and eliminates station wagon effect into the cockpit. Even with the master stateroom’s cockpit door open, no smoke or soot found its way inside from the clean-burning Yanmar turbo diesels. Lagoon also offers 250 hp Yanmar diesels.

The 43’s motion, or perhaps what is more accurately described as a lack of motion, takes some getting used to. My time spent in unpleasant weather aboard semi-displacement hulls has me used to shuffling in baby steps with legs spread apart and one arm stretched before me. The more stable platform offered by a catamaran offers less-abrupt motion in a seaway. I suspect the Lagoon will also have good characteristics in a following sea, since there is less surface at the transom to resist water.

Another catamaran attribute that takes some getting used to is the slapping of a large head sea under the platform. Lagoon designed a V-shape wedge to help displace water and reduce pounding. A long keel protects the props, and the 43 can actually sit on her bottom if needed. “You can set the bottom flat, theoretically beaching it,” said Bruce Wagner, Lagoon America’s director, who spent a fair amount of time on hull number one.

“I’ve provided a lot of feedback back to the factory, and we’ll make some changes,” Wagner said. “The cockpit cover, for instance, will be fiberglass. We’re going to a different floor in the cabin. The cockpit seats will have more bolster.”

The flying bridge model, which is what Wagner expects to sell the most of, will make her rounds at the fall boat shows. Well-known yachtsman and designer Ted Hood purchased the show boat, a model I prefer and am eager to see in final form.

There is plenty of on-deck stowage for toys. A compartment forward of the house is nearly 5 feet deep and can easily absorb dive tanks, a dinghy, an outboard, fenders and lines. Two additional forepeak lockers and two lockers on the afterdeck should help keep the 43 self-sufficient for weeks. Another compartment in the cockpit sole contains a liferaft locker.

I was most taken with the 43’s cockpit area. As a kid in St. Barts (long before it was discovered by the jet set), I remember having little living space in the house besides a large pine table on a porch with comfortable chairs. This is where we ate every meal, and the area was the social center for the entire home. The Lagoon 43’s cockpit is a similar space. A table sits eight for meals, and a settee wraps around the cockpit to seat 12. We started one day in the cockpit with fresh-brewed coffee, fruit and cheese. Breakfast gradually turned to lunch, which faded into cocktails and hors d’oeuvres that blended into dinner. I was so comfortable, it took me 24 hours to leave the yacht and explore the charming village of St. Michaels, Maryland.

The cockpit flows nicely into the saloon through a large sliding door. It’s difficult to determine where one space ends and the other begins. Cool breezes fill the interior, and sunlight opens the space. The saloon remains cool thanks to the cabin top’s overhang over the windows. Working with a laptop at the L-shape settee, I didn’t feel like I was missing the outside action. Vertical windows provided a superior line of sight, with the only blind spot behind the galley.

Hull number one has a lower helm option, which should be standard. Not only are lower helms useful when the weather turns foul, they are a great air-conditioned place to drive when it is blazing hot outside. Lagoon should consider installing more than one wiper to give the helmsman a better view of the horizon.

The galley, however, needs no further refinement. It includes a front-loading 12-volt refrigerator and a top-load unit, which also provides good counter space. Again, stowage is everywhere, including a three-quarters height pantry, a bottle locker, a pot and pan drawer, and a dish locker. A four-burner range is under an opening hatch for added ventilation.

One of the 43’s most impressive features is her after cabin, which spans both hulls. The berth is in the middle, where standing headroom is not required. Ports surround the area, and an opening hatch is over the foot of the berth. There are his-and-her hanging lockers as well as a third locker, which will be great for linens. The head is split, with a sink and MSD to port, as well as a shower, if needed. To starboard is a commodious shower stall with sink. The head is at the foot of the stairs to the stateroom’s private entrance, which means a shower after a day at the beach won’t require trenching water through the interior.

Two identical staterooms are forward, both with wet heads. I took the starboard forward stateroom, which was so comfortable I had to rip myself out of bed to take a few pictures as the sun came up. Two opening ports and an overhead hatch funneled in fresh breezes, and the clearance over the berth provided an open feeling not found in many forepeak staterooms. I would install a few deep shelves to compensate for the one, albeit large, drawer.

Additional stowage is in the passageway, which also houses the AC/DC panel. The panel needs to be protected by a door or recessed deeper so people passing by won’t hit the breakers.

Totally equipped, the Lagoon is about $430,000.

Lagoon America, (410) 280-2368; www.cata-lagoon.com .

• More: Motoryachts
• More Yachts

Princess Yachts’ Y95-A Flagship Flybridge

Sanlorenzo, Volvo Penta Announce Partnership

Galeon Yachts 560 Fly Wins The Day

Sirena 48 to Make U.S. Debut

Saving Yourself With ACR’s PLB

Charter Clients, Start Your Engines

For Sale: 2008 Leopard 47 Powercat

For Sale: Benetti Tradition 100 Tri-Deck

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Florida Travel + Life
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Yachting may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site.

Copyright © 2024 Yachting. A Bonnier LLC Company . All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

Great choice! Your favorites are temporarily saved for this session. Sign in to save them permanently, access them on any device, and receive relevant alerts.

• Sailboat Guide

Leopard 43 is a 42 ′ 5 ″ / 13 m catamaran sailboat designed by Simonis Voogd Design and built by Robertson & Caine between 2004 and 2007.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Mainsail area: 76 m². Genoa area: 44 m². Engines: 2 x 29 hp diesels Most built for the charter trade. Owners version available (13) with different layout.

Embed this page on your own website by copying and pasting this code.

Discover Related Sailboats

YouTube Stars

YouTube sailing channels allow millions of us to experience the adventures of the high seas without casting off our own lines. We get an ...

• About Sailboat Guide

©2024 Sea Time Tech, LLC

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• BOOK ONLINE
• GET A QUOTE
• How It Works
• Islands & Anchorages
• After you’ve booked

Fleet / Power Boats

The leopard 43 offers a seamless saloon to foredeck walkthrough. suited to larger groups, there are various social areas..

Description

There were no details left unattended in the creation of the Leopard 43 power catamaran, including the hull design, the updated interior, and much more.  The Leopard 43 power catamaran is a completely redesigned mid-sized catamaran built with the quality foundation that has come to be expected of Leopard Catamarans.

The Leopard 43 power catamaran sleeps up to ten. She has four double cabins, two bathrooms and the saloon will accommodate another double.

She has ample head room, generous refrigeration space and an upstairs galley. Air-conditioning is available at the marina at no cost, and a user pays option on the water.

This well equipped power catamaran features a generous shaded flybridge with dining table, another fridge and sundeck. The roomy aft cockpit has a table and seating, and there is also a walk-through to the foredeck from the saloon.

A comfortable, powerful and stable boat for exploring the Whitsundays. Suitable for up to four couples, two families and large groups.

Customer Reviews

We had a great time on the Leopard 43 power cat and had great weather for our holiday! The family loved spending time on the beaches and relaxing on the boat. The daybed is an added luxury!

Chalkies beach was our number one spot and we even got to see dolphins at Whitehaven Beach.

Whitsunday Escape is the best charter company we've used and we've used many! We will definitely hire a boat with Whitsunday Escape again!

We had a fantastic week cruising the Whitsunday Islands on a Leopard 43 Power Catamaran. The boat was amazing and the location just perfect.

The Staff at Whitsunday Escape could not be faulted from our initial reservation until the post cruise debrief. Jordan in particular was fantastic and really added to our holiday.

Thanks for a great holiday, your staff were helpful through the whole booking, before departure and when we returned. I highly recommend booking through Whitsunday Escape for their service and keeping you in the loop as you prepare for your holiday with them.

The Whitsunday Islands is a beautiful area to explore and the Leopard 43 was a fantastic vessel with a great mix of luxury and practicality. Will definitely consider another holiday with Whitsunday Escape in the future.

Similar Vessels

The Leopard 47 is spacious and comfortable. Offering exceptional value, it’s an excellent choice for large groups.

The Leopard 43.3 features an expansive master suite, a spacious flybridge and saloon to foredeck walkthrough.

The Aquila 44.4 boasts an alfresco bar and is complemented by a spacious flybridge, it’s ideal for entertaining.

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Neel 43 on test: Is three the magic number?

• September 17, 2021

Can’t decide between a monohull and a catamaran? The surprising truth is that a fast cruising trimaran, like the Neel 43 could be the ideal solution. Rupert Holmes reports.

Product Overview

Manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.

Until recently it would have been easy to assume the pioneering cruising trimarans of the 1960s and 1970s showed that cruising on three hulls has too many drawbacks to be viable for most, despite the extra space and speed they offered. However, the past decade has seen a resurgence of lightweight fast cruising designs, with spacious accommodation, led by La Rochelle-based yard Neel who recently launched their Neel 43 trimaran.

This latest model, a Marc Lombard-designed 43, is one of those rare boats that defies both expectation and easy classification.

The Neel 43 has the deck space and massive coachroof of the most spacious of cruising catamarans, yet is at least three tonnes lighter than most 42ft cats.

We we tested the Neel 43 in La Rochelle, France with an onshore, 12-16 knot wind with a slight to moderate sea. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Another surprise is the low wetted surface area once the windward ama lifts out of the water. Each hull has a narrow waterline beam, so wetted surface area is a fraction of that of a catamaran of similar size. Combined with the light displacement this translates into a boat that’s surprisingly quick.

Neel 43 under sail

After hoisting the mainsail we cut the engine and bore away, unfurling the headsail with the wind on the beam. In only 14 knots of true wind we quickly accelerated to a consistent 10 knots of boat speed.

Sheeting in and squeezing up to a true wind angle of 65° – and 40° apparent wind angle – only saw speed drop by one knot.

Direct Dyneema cables, passing through a minimum of turns, connect the wheel to the single rudder. The helm felt beautifully responsive throughout the test, with a much more direct feel than is generally found on multihulls.

The windward ama lifts easily just out of the water, reducing wetted surface. Stability builds quickly. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Tacking proved to be as easy as with a monohull – the boat reliably turned smartly through the wind, with speed rarely dropping much below five knots.

However, visibility from the single raised helm is restricted by the headsail when on starboard tack and by the asymmetric on both tacks.

That there’s a single shallow keel below the centre hull, instead of the two low-profile keels of most catamarans is an important factor in the boat’s handling. It undoubtedly also helps that all the heavy items in the boat, including engine, tankage and batteries, are concentrated low down in the middle of the central hull.

The result is a very comfortable, soft motion that’s easier than that of a typical catamaran, but without the heel of a monohull. In some ways it’s also reminiscent of the easy gait of a heavy displacement long keeler.

The helm felt responsive, with an easy motion. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Yet, unlike monohulls, there’s no chance of a broach. Stability builds very quickly after 12-14° of heel is reached, so it takes an enormous force to heel the boat to significantly greater angles. This arguably gives more warning of being overpowered than catamarans, which may generate maximum stability at only 12° of heel.

In addition, the high freeboard means there’s a reassuring amount of reserve buoyancy in the amas, even if the boat is pressed hard in a gust or squall.

On the other hand, a downside of the Neel 43 effectively having a single fin keel is that, unlike most cruising catamarans, it can’t be beached.

Our test boat had standard Dacron sails, so a reasonable set of high-tech sails would undoubtedly see the boat able to squeeze a useful few degrees closer to the breeze without losing too much speed.

Easy motion

However, the reality is that the engine will be used in combination with the mainsail if schedules make a passage to windward essential. Motoring out of the La Rochelle entrance channel head to wind and sea gave a feel for how the easily driven underwater sections behave when motor sailing.

With the single 50hp engine at a comfortable 2,400rpm we made 8 knots, with a gentle motion that didn’t slow the boat.

On turning downwind our speed initially dropped to 6-7 knots at a true wind angle of 150°, until we hoisted the general purpose asymmetric kite. Although it’s not a particularly large sail, this brought the speed back up to 8.5-9 knots, producing our best downwind VMG of 7 knots.

In some ways The Neel 43 sails in a way that is reminiscent of the easy gait of a heavy displacement long keeler. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

When the breeze picked up a little to 15-16 knots true we sheeted in and luffed up to 115° off the true wind, accelerating to an easy 10.5-11 knots of boat speed. The Neel has so much stability that, even though the sailplan was now generating far more power, there was no perceptible change in heel.

All lines, other than spinnaker sheets, are led to the raised helm station at the front of the starboard side of the cockpit.

Despite its intrinsic speed potential, this is not a boat that’s set up to be constantly tweaked. The deck layout is therefore simple, but efficient. It’s also obviously a cost-effective arrangement, but doesn’t skimp through fitting under-sized winches and other equipment. A powered winch on our test boat took all the effort out of sail handling.

Port and starboard mainsheets – in appropriate colours – give excellent control of the sail shape, without a costly traveller that might endanger the hands of anyone relaxing at the back of the cockpit. The primary sheet is the one on the windward side, while the leeward one gives excellent control of twist.

All lines other than spinnaker sheets are led to the helm station. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Headsail sheets are led through a single fixed fairlead. It’s a simple arrangement that minimises coachroof clutter, though twist will increase, spilling wind out of the top of the sail, when it’s partially furled in stronger winds.

Article continues below…

Three hulls, one planet: Neel 51 owner explains how he went self-sustainable

Bluewater sailing stories usually start with someone who has been around boats all their life. But not this one. A…

Three hulls better than two – how the Neel 51 trimaran is challenging its many twin-hulled competitors

Neel has found a clever niche offering the performance benefits of a trimaran with the type of accommodation offered in…

43 of the best bluewater sailboat designs of all time

Which yacht is the best for bluewater boating? This question generates even more debate among sailors than questions about what’s…

The optional free-flying working jib can be hoisted furled, so there’s no inner forestay to get in the way when tacking the genoa when it’s not set up.

If I was specifying the sailplan I’d also opt for a Code 0 for use when reaching with the apparent wind well forward of the beam, plus a large asymmetric shaped for deeper downwind angles than the test boat’s all-purpose sail. This would maximise downwind VMG in light and moderate airs.

Technical heart

An unusual, but appealing, feature of all Neel trimarans is the technical area below the saloon floor in the central hull – on some of the larger models this has an impressive 7ft (2.1m) of headroom, which makes for easy access and fault-finding. However the Neel 43 is smaller, which means this is reduced to generous sitting headroom and floor space is limited.

The central section houses tanks, plumbing and batteries, while the engine and steering gear are further aft. Further forward the space is dominated by a large number of electrical items and connections for solar charge regulators, shorepower battery chargers, inverters and so on.

The saloon opens almost seamlessly onto the cockpit. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

It’s great that these are easy to access, which also serves as a reminder of the vast number of systems that are often hidden out of sight and distributed around different parts of today’s increasingly complex yachts.

However, there’s a downside that can’t be overlooked. These systems are low down in the boat, close to where any water will collect. Fitting a couple of bilge alarms, and making regular checks when underway by lifting the access hatch in the saloon floor, would therefore be sensible precautions. Despite this drawback it’s still an arrangement that has advantages over many installations.

Loft-style minimalism

What about the interior of the Neel 43? Despite the design’s abilities under sail, in this part of the market it’s the accommodation that sells boats. Yet, once again, this is an aspect that defies comparison with others.

Both transoms have swim platforms. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

The almost seamless blending of indoor and outdoor areas is appealing, but far from unique among today’s multihull designs.

On the other hand, Neel has gone for the ultimate in a loft-style layout that’s refreshingly different. Masses of windows and large expanses of white fibreglass are balanced by just enough fabric and wood trim to give it some warmth.

Reed-style flooring also adds to a feeling of comfort, in the Neel 43 without increasing weight, and can be taken outside to wash and clean.

There’s excellent near-surround visibility – around 300° – when sitting in the saloon and it’s almost as good when standing.

Forward to port is a watchkeeping station with switch panel, and on our test boat a second MFD, VHF and Fusion audio kit, plus 12V outlets and an analogue steering compass here. However, it stops short of being a full chart table that could also be used as an office, so I’m typing this at the saloon table, which is a great place to work, with brilliant views and lots of natural light.

The saloon and galley area has a very open plan layout. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

In common with other Neel models, the owner’s cabin is on the same level as the saloon. A downside is therefore a lack of privacy, even with the curtains drawn and door closed. However, it’s a beautifully lit and airy space that would suit those who primarily cruise as a couple.

There’s almost no built-in stowage, although the deep bins in the ama outboard of the bunk will take several large kit bags.

Neat touches for every bunk include a reading lamp with built-in USB port, a folding coat hook for jackets, plus a fabric bulkhead-mounted pouch with space for a phone, tablet, sunglasses, notebook and so on.

These may sound like small points, but it’s surprising how many boats lack provision for these items and they therefore quickly get scattered everywhere.

Natural ventilation is primarily via an opening forward facing window on each side of the coachroof – one for the saloon and one for the owner’s cabin.

A berth is separated by the red curtain. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

There’s also a small opening hatch in the middle of the coachroof and another for the heads. This is a long, narrow compartment off the starboard side of the saloon.

Overall there’s plenty of space and a shower is included, though it’s not luxurious and there’s no option for a second toilet and shower compartment.

The second cabin is right forward in the central hull, accessed by steps just ahead of the galley. This is a pleasant space with more privacy than the owner’s cabin, though the berth is only 77cm wide at its foot.

A third sleeping area is outboard of the saloon table, aft on the port side of the saloon. This is open plan to the saloon, with curtains for screening, with a generous 140x200cm rectangular bunk with space underneath for kit bags. It would make a great space for kids on passage.

Bright accommodation in the owners cabin with views. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

For the charter market there’s also an option to drop the saloon table to create an additional double berth, plus small single cabins forward in the amas that are accessed from the foredeck, making a potential maximum of 10 berths.

Few owners are likely to want to sail with that many for long, but the flexibility of being able to cater for extra short term guests, without dragging the weight and volume of spare bedrooms around the rest of the time has an obvious appeal.

Engine is housed in the central hull, with tanks further forward. Photo: by Olivier Blanchet

Given the price of the Neel 43 compared to other multihulls of a similar length it should not be a surprise that it has been conceived to be quick and easy to build, aside from the vacuum infused mouldings that are an important element in keeping weight to a minimum.

Those who love traditional joinery with hand crafted solid hardwood trim will be disappointed and the lack of a second heads will rule the boat out for some.

However, in general the relatively Spartan level of fit out Neel has opted for is appropriate for a boat of this style that’s aimed at a mass audience.

It took Neel 10 years to build its first 100 boats. In the current financial year, ending September, the yard has produced more than 30 boats across a four model range of 43-65ft sailing designs, plus semi-custom fuel efficient power trimarans.

The popularity of the Neel 43 means output is set to grow by a large margin in the coming year.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

There’s much to like about this design: it’s a cruising boat in every respect, not an outright speed machine, yet it’s one that will quickly leave the competition behind. While it’s not a model that will suit everyone, founder Eric Bruneel has a good understanding of how a vast proportion of owners use their vessels and has created a yacht that will exceed their expectations in many respects. A decade ago trimarans were a niche part of the cruising world, however, the Neel 43 shows the concept of a cruising tri is ready for the mass market. The design has already proved hugely popular and one boat is leaving the factory every fortnight.

Belize 43 Catamaran Review – The Amazing Cat!

Fountaine Pajot is known for designing a range of sailing cats with superb performance levels and all the comforts you could ask for. This is the Belize 43 Catamaran review to help you know all about the cat from Fountaine Pajot.

The Belize 43 is yet another fast catamaran from the Fountaine Pajot shipyard. The cat is considered one of the best that the company has produced. Sailing in the Belize 43 is exciting and effortless.

The cat’s length of 13 meters, and its streamlined shape means it cuts through the water with ease. The Belize 43 is famous for its exceptional performance, which can be attributed to the generous sails of 111 square meters.

Table of Contents

Accommodation

The Belize 43 has well-thought-out accommodation that makes maximum use of what little space there is. The cat has four large double cabins and two single cabins. Both sides of the forward hull have a double cabin and a single cabin.

Each cabin has a shower head with both hot and cold water showers. During the day, the cat can hold 12 passengers, so you don’t have to worry about friends tagging along on a cruise during the day. It doesn’t feel crowded at all.

The interior of the Belize 43 is quite practical with a classy finish. Every part of the cat’s interior is covered with white and faux wood finishes. As you enter the cabins, then you realize just how posh the design elements are.

You will also love all the small storage compartments cleverly placed in areas easy to reach. The gallery has a full cupboard with the most practical setup.

Additionally, you also have a fridge and a gas stove, and an oven, as well as cutlery and other kitchen equipment. You will also want to take a look at the convivial dining area.

The FP Belize 43 has been designed to be as light as possible without having to compromise on stability. The construction was done using solid fiberglass in areas that require heavy-duty parts, such as the bottom of the hulls.

The cat was designed using a computer model that allowed the construction team to tinker with even the finest details. For this reason, the key stress areas were reinforced with additional layers of fiberglass.

With such a build, the cat is strong and stable yet light, thus the lightships of 8500kgs. This explains why it is so much fun to cruise in the Belize 43 because performance is maximized in every way possible.

The boat also has sacrificial mini keels and integral foam crash bulkheads, which can protect it when an underwater collision occurs. The mini keels detach in the event that such a crash occurs.

Design and Functionality

The boat has its square head main redesigned and upgraded to the hybrid as well as the screecher and furling genoa. With such changes, the Belize 43 sails quite pleasantly even in winds of 5kts which are not as strong as you would like for a fast-paced cruise.

It is also safer to sail her since there are two furling heads that are controlled from the cockpit using two improved electric winches.

The bridge deck clearance, proper weight distribution as well as the safe and enclosed cockpit make her much easier to handle in bad weather. This is also bolstered by the ease by which you handle the sails.

The boat is fitted with two Yanmar 3GM30F engines which also include an SD20-Saildrive, which in turn delivers the torque you need for choppy waters.

The fuel tank holds a massive 300 liters (77 gallons) of fuel. The boat also has an 80 Amps second alternator for the Starboard engine.

Owing to the design aspects that went into the construction of this boat, you can already tell that it has under sail that makes for enjoyable cruising. The universal is even better because a lot of the elements have been updated.

The mainsail is brand new, as well as a parasailor of 125 meters square, which includes Easysnuffer and looks brand new. The mast height is 64.6 feet above the water with 25 mast steps. The boat’s sails span 1111 meters, so you can drop them and cruise on a nice windy afternoon at considerable speeds.

Why Sail the Belize 43

There is a lot to keep you hooked on the boat, from the number of passengers it can take to the way it cuts through the water. In addition to its commendable performance, the boat has all the comfort to help you forget about taxing hours back at home when you are on vacation.

It comes with extras such as air-conditioning, an electric anchor winch, GPS, transom shower and ladder, standard slab, a tender outboard motor and wheel steering, CD player and AM/FM radio, and last but certainly not least, a fully equipped galley to prepare your favorite meals on board just like in your kitchen at home.

If you have sailed in other cats in the same class as the Belize 43, then you will enjoy the breath of fresh air that it is. You shouldn’t enjoy your sunny vacation days in the sand only. Some of them should be spent in the open seas as you cruise on the Belize 43.

In Conclusion

As a boat that is designed for joyrides in the waters, nothing comes close to the impressive stats of the Belize 43. The boat has all the safety equipment for emergencies, including 9 automatic safety life vests and a life raft that can accommodate 8 people that have been recently serviced. Count on this boat to be the highlight of your trip. Ready for a rental by couples and families, the Belize 43 makes for an enjoyable sail.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Fountaine Pajot
• Boat type: Catamaran
• Length Overall: 13.00 m
• Beam: 7.00 m
• Draft Min: 1.30 m
• Water Capacity: 600 L
• Fuel Capacity: 300 L
• Berths: 8/12
• Maximum Guests: 12
• Bathrooms:  4
• Engines:  2
• Power:  27 hp

Have you already sailed the Belize 43? If so, you are welcome to share your experience in the comments below.

Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

6 thoughts on “Belize 43 Catamaran Review – The Amazing Cat!”

Hello, this is a very complete article about the Belize 43 Catamaran, you included all the technical aspects, which is very important to know.

One of my dreams was always to learn to navigate, until now I could not make it come true, mainly because where I live we do not have an ocean (I live in Paraguay). But I know that one day I can go to live or even vacation for a few months in a heavenly place and it would be ideal to sail in a Catamaran like the Belize 43.Pao

Yes, you are tight, the Belize 43 would be the perfect boat for sailing. Keep dreaming and somehow your dream will become reality! Paraguay is a beautiful place!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a lovely

This Cat is really appealing.  We used to love going out on a friend’s catamaran, and had some wonderful days sailing off the coast of southern California.  The Belize 43 would have made it even more fun.  With so many berths and heads, everyone in the group should be quite happy.  I especially like the fact that it has an enclosed cockpit.  It will make sailing with smaller children, or older family members a bit more comfortable, not to mention safer.  The fact that it has two engines means we won’t have to worry if one should have a problem.  And, such a large fuel tank means we can sail on calm days and not worry.  This seems like the perfect boat to book for a stress-free vacation.  

Indeed, the Belize 43 is a comfortable and spacious boat. Southern California is a beautiful place, you must have had a good time! This cat has everything you need to have an unforgettable sailing trip!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a wonderful day!

Great video that shows exactly what it looks like from the outside and inside.  

Wow it makes just want to get out and enjoy life out on the water.  Just to get away from it all and just be free out on your own or with some of your closest friends.Leave the rest of the world behind and set sail.

Yes, there isn’t a better way to enjoy life than on a boat! It’s absolutely stunning! You should try:) 

Thank you for the comment and wish you a lovely day!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Sold Catamaran:

1993 privilege 43 (43ft)-vessel summary.

BASIC SUMMARY

Dimensions & specifications, hull and deck configuration, engine details, generator details, dinghy details.

• Update Profile
• Email me when price drops
• Do you own a boat like this? Sell it now

Boat Description

The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors to investigate such details as the buyer desired validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may not properly reflect the current condition of the actual vessel offered for sale. In some cases stock photographs may have been used.

Mechanical Disclaimer

Engine and generator hours are as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise and major overhauls as well as all other representations noted on the listing.

Dinghy Disclaimer

All dinghies are considered separate vessels and should have separate titles and documents. There is no guarantee as to the title of the dinghy on this vessel so Buyer accepts that while he may receive the dinghy included in the transaction, he may not receive the proper title to it.

• Performance
• Construction
• NEEL 43 PERFORMANCE limited edition
• Rental-Management
• Charter a NEEL trimaran
• LEEN-TRIMARANS
• NEEL-TRIMARANS GROUP
• NEEL OWNERS COMMUNITY

Receive an offer

Rent a NEEL

The NEEL 43, surprising and innovative

The neel 43, lombard-designed, is even more innovative and impressive, and with a marked move towards the use of bio-sourced and recyclable materials, neel-trimarans has confirmed its determined commitment to respecting the environment., photos and videos, neel 43 sailing, the neel 43 is a trimaran that is both fast and safe, yet easily manoeuvrable by a small crew. its handling at sea, coupled with its performance and comfort levels are outstanding..

NEEL 43 Exterior

The helm station is especially ergonomic, offering a triple seat,it is accessible, from the cockpit or from the deck. the cockloon® effect can be appreciated thanks to the wide opening between the cockpit and the saloon..

NEEL 43 Interior

The distribution of volumes, flow of movement and luminosity make this new interior a truly unique living space. there are two double cabins, and the configuration of the saloon can be rearranged to sleeps up to 4 people.

NEEL 43 Life style

The neel 43, which can accommodate up to 10 people, is both fun at anchor and efficient at sea. life on board the neel 43 is definitely synonymous with pleasure and holidays with a a saloon and a cockpit which communicate easily and which form the famous cockloon®.

Specifications

Testimonials

Testimony – Crossing the Atlantic on a NEEL 43 ? A child’s play!

Last July, the SAIL AND SURF WITH THE PLANET family had just taken delivery of their NEEL 43 in La Rochelle. Audrey, Christophe and their 4 children had taken the...

Around the world with 4 children aboard a NEEL 43 : the testimony of the SAIL AND SURF family

You have owned a NEEL 43 for a few weeks now. Why did you choose a NEEL trimaran and more precisely the NEEL 43 ? At the beginning of...

First months of sailing with a NEEL 43

You have owned a NEEL 43 for a few months now. Why did you choose a NEEL trimaran and more precisely the NEEL 43 ?  I have known and visited...

Distinctions

Privacy Overview

• Legal Notice
• Recruitment
• Private access

• Aeolian Islands
• Amalfi Coast
• Italian Riviera
• Antigua & Barbuda
• Balearic Islands
• --> Split --> Dubrovnik --> Hvar --> Trogir --> Korcula --> Sukosan --> faq --> --> -->